Veteran New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor heaped praise on Pakistan’s bowling on the opening day of the first Test at Mount Maunganui on Saturday.

A half century from Taylor in a century stand with Kane Williamson rescued New Zealand from a troubled start on the first day.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson (94) was within sight of his 23rd Test century after he rebuilt the home side’s innings and guided them to a solid 222-3 at stumps.

“It was difficult early on but you expect that on a day one pitch. It had definitely flattened out, later on. The wicket was probably a bit two-paced at times. So it will be interesting, it will get bit uneven in the next couple of days. The way Kane and I go through that, it was nice and pleasing. You have to give it to Shaheen, he bowled outstandingly well. Mohammad Abbas also didn’t really give us much,” said Taylor in the post-match press conference.  

“Shaheen Shah Afridi is only going to get better and he will enjoy this wicket and the one in Christchurch as well. I think Pakistan is going to see a very good bowler in years to come,” he added.

When Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl on a typical New Zealand green wicket, Afridi and Mohammad Abbas were immediately on target with a swing and seam session that quickly removed the New Zealand openers.

Afridi accounted for Tom Latham (four) and Tom Blundell (five) with edges to the slip cordon and Abbas, while unsuccessful, was miserly with four maidens in his opening six-over spell.

“Pakistan bowled with more discipline than West Indies and bowled in the right areas for a lot longer. West Indies did bowl well at times but weren't as consistent as this lot,” he concluded.